If you can do it with paper ...

... you can do it with fabric! Hello, and welcome from Alexa today on a material theme, with some inspiring books which will open your eyes and make your fingers dance when you see what can be done to, and with, fabric. I've long been a paper-lover, but recently become fascinated by the crossovers into cloth. I have five books here, any one of which would make a great present to yourself ... (and I have no connection with the book store: just including links for further perusing!).

Textile Art, published by Apple Press

• a how-to manual in two parts
•  the first, about texture and depth, covers different types of stitching and manipulation
• the second, concetnrating on colour and design, explains how to use dyes, fabric paints, sun printing, and many other techniques
• good for: the breadth of its coverage and step-by-step photos

From Image to Stitch, by Maggie Grey

• how to develop an image, whether hand-drawn, a photo, a photocopy, into a piece of textile art
• details on scanning, using simple software to manipulate images for unusual or abstract effects
• transfer of images to fabric, tissue paper, metal, plastic, and innovate hand and machine sewing ideas
• good for: inspiration, technical instructions, and eye-opening ideas

  The Painted Quilt, by Linda and Laura Kemshall

• a mother and daughter team who regularly exhibit and win prizes for their work
• covers printing and painting on quilts
• includes ideas for gel transers, fusible web, adding text, fabric pastels, dyeing ...
• good for: pushing the boundaries of 'what is a quilt"? More than just something to put on the bed! 

Creative Quilts by Sandra Meech

• focuses on developing your own creativity with sketch and stitch books
• adds in techniques with materials like Tyvek, wireform, and textured wools
• good for giving you the confidence and know-how to get started on journal-keeping and learning about design

Print, Pattern and Colour by Ruth Issett

• techniques for paper and fabric, and both together
• a real how-to focus on using paint and dye, rollers, and making your own stamping blocks
• eye-catching photos and stunning multi-layered cloth
• good for showing how to build layers of colour and shape

Hoping there is something in here to inspire you! And perhaps one of these will expand your horizons or even set you off in an entirely new direction ... Happy travelling! And thank-you for calling in today. :)

 

Comments

[Lynne V]

Thanks Alexa.
Print Pattern and colour is one of my favourite technique books.

[Mandy]

All these books look good, thanks for the inspiration.